Skincare for Rosacea: What Dermatologists Recommend

The foundation of any rosacea management plan is gentle, barrier-supportive skincare - and daily sun protection. UV exposure is the most consistent rosacea trigger, which means sunscreen is not optional; it is the single most important daily step for anyone with this condition.

At the Institute of Dermatologists, we recommend mineral (physical) sunscreens for rosacea-prone skin. Zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm redness over time. Chemical sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin and may trigger flare-ups in some patients.

Our Recommended Products for Rosacea Skincare 

Morning

• Gentle cream cleanser -  avoid gel or foaming formulas, which can strip and irritate. Look for ceramide-rich options such as the EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser.

• Mineral SPF -  apply daily, every day, rain or shine. Our number 1 recommendation for rosacea is EltaMD UV Clear Tinted or Untinted, which contains niacinamide to calm redness and hyaluronic acid to support hydration. For those with very sensitive skin who require a physical-only formula, EltaMD AOX UV Elements is an excellent alternative.

Evening

• Double cleanse - remove sunscreen and makeup thoroughly. The EltaMD Oil-in-Gel Cleanser works well as a first cleanse, followed by a gentle cream cleanser.

• Barrier moisturiser - apply after cleansing to support and restore the skin barrier. The EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex is clinically proven to restore the skin barrier within 24 hours, formulated with ceramides, squalane, and biotin.

• Gentle retinoid (if tolerated) - retinoids can be beneficial for rosacea when chosen carefully and introduced slowly. Clinical Skin Retinol AOX, Clinical Skin Retinol and Peptides and Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream are formulated with anti-inflammatory ingredients, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, making themf the best-tolerated options for rosacea-prone skin. Always introduce slowly.

• Night moisturiser -  the EltaMD PM Restore Moisturiser or EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex are excellent overnight options, combining ceramides, peptides and niacinamide to strengthen skin and reduce inflammation while you sleep.

Optional Step (AM or PM)

• Balancing toner -  the EltaMD Skin Recovery Toner is alcohol-free and calming. It helps to balance and hydrate skin after cleansing, prepares skin to better absorb subsequent products, and soothes irritation without stripping the barrier.

Avoid products containing alcohol, menthol, eucalyptus oil, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and fragrances. These are common irritants in rosacea-prone skin and can trigger flare-ups.